The myth and legend of the Giant’s Causeway | Ireland.com The Giant Story Antrim’s Giant’s Causeway’s is a 60-million-year-old story of science. Or is it? CNN’s John D Sutter is touring the island of Ireland clockwise. Eventually, he arrives to what he calls “Northern Ireland’s most popular attraction”. His description of the Giant’s Causeway hints at the magical: “A golf-course green canyon wall slopes into a set of volcanic rock formations that are completely surreal: Near-perfect hexagon tubes are stacked next to each other like puzzle pieces.” Giant's Causeway, County Antrim Something this pretty couldn’t be the result of a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago, could it? Well, there are two lines of thought on that one. The first involves a certain giant by the name of Finn McCool (also known as Fionn mac Cumhaill). Think a friend might enjoy this article? Click to save and share Giant fights Finn is having trouble with someone across the water. The Scottish giant Benandonner is threatening Ireland. An enraged Finn grabs chunks of the Antrim coast and throws them into the sea. The rock forms a path for Finn to follow and teach Benandonner a lesson.

Bad idea – Benandonner is terrifyingly massive. Finn beats a hasty retreat, followed by the giant, only to be saved by our hero’s quick-thinking wife who disguised him as a baby. The angry Scot saw the baby and decided if the child was that big, the daddy must be really huge. Mythical landscapes, magical tales For Eleanor Killough, a guide at the new state-of-the-art visitor centre, the Finn story holds water: “Of course it was Finn McCool! That’s what we the locals believe anyway. “We give our visitors the two sides of the coin – the stories and the science and let them decide, but most visitors leave believing this place is an ancient home of a mighty giant.” As Eleanor says, though, there are two sides to the story. The science bit “The Giant’s Causeway is the aftermath of volcanic crashing, burning and cooling,” Eleanor explains. “An epic 60-million-year-old legacy to lava. Over 40,000 basalt columns. Interlocked. “It’s no wonder this place is a Unesco World Heritage Site because beyond the mindboggling beauty, the Causeway is our portal into Earth’s most ancient past,” she concludes.

Picture-perfect scenes Whatever you choose to believe, there’s no disputing that the Causeway makes a pretty picture. Thousands of tourists click their cameras here every year, and when the Olympic Torch visited Northern Ireland, it was a photo opportunity not to be missed. Director Ben Joyner was so enamoured with the Causeway, he put it on screen. The result won Discover Ireland’s “Jump Into Ireland” video competition. Giant or science? Maybe you should check it out for yourself. Save this page to a Scrapbook: Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Dublin Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Dublin € 65.00 tax incl. You must add 1 a a minimum quantity to buy this tour. Warning: Last items in stock! Reference : Availability: Ticket type: Jump aboard our tour to one of the Ireland's Wonders! Explore the mystical mythology of Northern Ireland and the story of Finn McCool (helped) by volcanic activity, the Irish Giant who built the Causeway. This is a site of World Heritage and is therefore ranked alongside Mount Everest and the Giant Redwoods of California for its importance.

THIS 1 DAY TOUR TO THE GIANTS CAUSEWAY ALSO INCLUDES CARRICK A REDE ROPE BRIDGE, Dark Hedges - Game of Thrones, DUNLUCE CASTLE & BELFAST CITY. OVERVIEW Jump aboard our tour to one of the Ireland's Wonders! Explore the mystical mythology of Northern Ireland and the story of Finn McCool (helped) by volcanic activity, the Irish Giant who built the Causeway. This is a site of World Heritage and is therefore ranked alongside Mount Everest and the Giant Redwoods of California for its importance. Our guides will bring their own slant on the stories and myths and wil ensure that you have an experience of a lifetime. We also take in a visit to the "Carrick-a-Rede" rope bridge, price included, where the brave can face their fears and cross over. A trip to Ireland cannot be completed without a visit to Ireland's first World Heritage site. Itinerary 6:30am To begin, departure takes place outside the old stone church located off of Suffolk Street (sitemap is available within the link to the booking page) which is the governmental tourist office near Grafton Street and is directly located inside of the church.

More specifically, the office is called “Dublin Tourism”. Once you’ve found the location of departure, you’ll meet your fun-loving and very knowledgeable tour guide who will introduce you to your fellow travel companions! 10.00am Our First stop of the day is the Dark Hedges. This fantastic stretch of road was planted with Beech trees by James Stuart in the 1700s. The intertwining trees create an amazing specticle and were featured in the Game of thrones. 12:20pm Next, we will stop for a short while to breathe in the fresh air while having an energizing stroll around the area with plenty of ideal photo opportunities. Afterwards, we will head towards the renowned Giants Causeway. From there we will drive through the charming village of Ballintoy as well as having the surreal opportunity of seeing spectacular views over Whiteparks Bay and Portbradden. Once we arrive at the Causeway, we highly suggest strolling up to the very peak of the cliffs so that you’re able to enjoy a panoramic view of the causeway then descend down to the point referred to as the “Organ” for which you will be highly impressed by this wondrous sight.

As for a bite to eat, you can either pack your own lunch for a picnic by the sea or choose from dining at The Nook or the Causeway Hotel. 2:00pm Once you’ve finished with lunch, we’ll head off towards the famous “Carrick-a-Rede” rope bridge which is managed by the National Trust. In order to show our personal support for this conservational charity, we include the price of the bridge-tour within the overall budget of our packaged deal. Also, you may notice some of the native wildlife along the way as you prepare for the 20 minute descend up to the bridge for your courageous “leap of faith”. As you fearlessly walk across, you will genuinely notice the breathtaking views looking out towards the Rathlin Island’s and Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. Next, we will jump aboard the bus once again around 3:00pm to head towards the grand city of Belfast. Our tour will be setup as a roundabout route so that you’re able to capture a full-length picture of the praised about Dunluce Castle, the most romantic castle in all of Ireland which was home to the McDonnell Clan for many years.

Not to mention, that the Dunluce Castle has been referred to as the primary inspiration for CS Lewis’s fictional castle “Clair Paravel” which was established in her popular series, “The Chronicles of Narnia”. In addition, we’ll be passing through the spirited town of Bushmills where Ireland’s very first hydro power plant was originally built as well as being the proud makers of a wonderful brand of whiskey! 5:00pm Once we’ve arrived at the notable city of Belfast, you’ll be allotted an hour or so to go about sightseeing at your own convenience. We recommend visiting the main shopping district for souvenirs, the historic Titanic Quarter and of course the Belfast City Hall. Afterwards, we’ll finish up our fun filled adventure by making our way back to Dublin all within a days’ time. 7:30pm To finish off, we’ll arrive back in Dublin to reminisce about all of the exciting highlights! Departure Point Discover Ireland Centre, the Old Stone Church, Andrew Street/Suffolk Street.

Departure time 6:30AM Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Dublin <p><strong style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal;">THIS 1 DAY TOUR TO THE GIANTS CAUSEWAY ALSO INCLUDES CARRICK A REDE ROPE BRIDGE, Dark Hedges - Game of Thrones, DUNLUCE CASTLE &amp; BELFAST CITY.</strong></p> <h3>OVERVIEW</h3> <p>Jump aboard our tour to one of the Ireland's Wonders! Explore the mystical mythology of Northern Ireland and the story of Finn McCool (helped) by volcanic activity, the Irish Giant who built the Causeway. This is a site of World Heritage and is therefore ranked alongside Mount Everest and the Giant Redwoods of California for its importance.</p> <p>Our guides will bring their own slant on the stories and myths and wil ensure that you have an experience of a lifetime. </p> <p>We also take in a visit to the "Carrick-a-Rede" rope bridge, price included, where the brave can face their fears and cross over.

A trip to Ireland cannot be completed without a visit to Ireland's first World Heritage site.</p> <h3>Itinerary</h3> <p><strong>6:30am</strong></p> <p>To begin, departure takes place outside the old stone church located off of Suffolk Street (sitemap is available within the link to the booking page) which is the governmental tourist office near Grafton Street and is directly located inside of the church. More specifically, the office is called “Dublin Tourism”. Once you’ve found the location of departure, you’ll meet your fun-loving and very knowledgeable tour guide who will introduce you to your fellow travel companions! </p> <p><span><span><strong>10.00am</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">Our First stop of the day is the Dark Hedges. This fantastic stretch of road was planted with Beech trees by James Stuart in the 1700s. The intertwining trees create an amazing specticle and were featured in the Game of thrones.

</span></p> <p><strong>12:20pm </strong></p> <p>Next, we will stop for a short while to breathe in the fresh air while having an energizing stroll around the area with plenty of ideal photo opportunities. Afterwards, we will head towards the renowned Giants Causeway. From there we will drive through the charming village of Ballintoy as well as having the surreal opportunity of seeing spectacular views over Whiteparks Bay and Portbradden. Once we arrive at the Causeway, we highly suggest strolling up to the very peak of the cliffs so that you’re able to enjoy a panoramic view of the causeway then descend down to the point referred to as the “Organ” for which you will be highly impressed by this wondrous sight. As for a bite to eat, you can either pack your own lunch for a picnic by the sea or choose from dining at The Nook or the Causeway Hotel.</p> <p><strong>2:00pm</strong></p> <p>Once you’ve finished with lunch, we’ll head off towards the famous “Carrick-a-Rede” rope bridge which is managed by the National Trust.

In order to show our personal support for this conservational charity, we include the price of the bridge-tour within the overall budget of our packaged deal. Also, you may notice some of the native wildlife along the way as you prepare for the 20 minute descend up to the bridge for your courageous “leap of faith”. As you fearlessly walk across, you will genuinely notice the breathtaking views looking out towards the Rathlin Island’s and Mull of Kintyre in Scotland.</p> <p>Next, we will jump aboard the bus once again around 3:00pm to head towards the grand city of Belfast. Our tour will be setup as a roundabout route so that you’re able to capture a full-length picture of the praised about Dunluce Castle, the most romantic castle in all of Ireland which was home to the McDonnell Clan for many years. Not to mention, that the Dunluce Castle has been referred to as the primary inspiration for CS Lewis’s fictional castle “Clair Paravel” which was established in her popular series, “The Chronicles of Narnia”.

In addition, we’ll be passing through the spirited town of Bushmills where Ireland’s very first hydro power plant was originally built as well as being the proud makers of a wonderful brand of whiskey!</p> <p><strong>5:00pm</strong></p> <p>Once we’ve arrived at the notable city of Belfast, you’ll be allotted an hour or so to go about sightseeing at your own convenience. We recommend visiting the main shopping district for souvenirs, the historic Titanic Quarter and of course the Belfast City Hall. Afterwards, we’ll finish up our fun filled adventure by making our way back to Dublin all within a days’ time.</p> <p><strong>7:30pm</strong></p> <p>To finish off, we’ll arrive back in Dublin to reminisce about all of the exciting highlights!</p> € 0.00 Giants Causeway - Game of Thrones Tours in Myths and Legends Giants Causeway The Giants Causeway was said to have been built by an Irish giant, Finn McCool many years ago. The legendary Finn McCool was an Irish giant so many times bigger than anything HBO or George Martin could come up with!

Legend has it that the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) built the causeway to walk to Scotland to fight his Scottish counterpart Benandonner. One version of the legend tells that Fionn fell asleep before he got to Scotland. When he did not arrive, the much larger Benandonner crossed the bridge looking for him. To protect Fionn, his wife Oonagh laid a blanket over him so he could pretend that he was actually their baby son. In a variation, Fionn fled after seeing Benandonner’s great bulk, and asked his wife to disguise him as the baby. In both versions, when Benandonner saw the size of the ‘infant’, he assumed the alleged father, Fionn, must be gigantic indeed. Therefore, Benandonner fled home in terror, ripping up the Causeway in case he was followed by Fionn. Another variation is that Oonagh painted a rock shaped like a steak and gave it to Benandonner, whilst giving the baby (Fionn) a normal steak. When Benandonner saw that the baby was able to eat it so easily, he ran away, tearing up the causeway.

The “causeway” legend corresponds with geological history in as much as there are similar basalt formations (a part of the same ancient lava flow) at the site of Fingal’s Cave on the isle of Staffa in Scotland. Giants Causeway Tour from Dublin - Giant Causeway Day Tours Giant Causeway Day Tours Giants Causeway Tour from Dublin Includes: FREE Airport Transfer Paddys Palace, Lower Gardiner Street, Dublin @ 7.15am O’Connell Street – “Discover Ireland” Office, next to Savoy Cinema @ 7.20am Tourist Office, Suffolk Street. @ 7.30am You cannot truly visit Ireland without a visit to the legendary Giant’s Causeway! Volcanic activity helped Finn McCool forge this wonder of the world some 60 million years ago. The 6km of sheer cliffs rising to over 90m and forming a series of bays are spectacular. We include the all-new innovative and imaginative Giant’s Causeway Visitors’ Centre. You will be provided with free audio guides! From the Giant’s Causeway to Belfast, and the magnificent rope bridge this tour has it all! Definitely the most comprehensive tour of Northern Ireland!

Our office is open 24hrs a day, 365 days a the year and our online booking engine allows bookings to be made right up until the last minute. For the most memorable day out jump aboard the Paddywagon and let our world famous guides inspire you with songs and stories, making this a wonderful trip with memories to last a lifetime! CARRICK A REDE We spend an hour strolling along the windswept coastal path with amazing views to and from the rope bridge. Traditionally fishermen erected the bridge to Carrick-a-Rede Island over a chasm 23m deep and 20m wide, to harvest salmon from their nets. With views of the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. . GIANT’S CAUSEWAY We continue along the coastal drive with fantastic views of Whitepark Bay and Portbradden. We visit the 37,000 basalt columns whose tops form “stepping stones” leading from the cliff foot and disappearing under the sea. They reappear in the island of Straffe, hence the legend that this was a road built by the giant Finn McCool to enable him to cross over to Scotland.

Truly an amazing wonder of the world! COASTLINE VIEWS We travel along the Causeway Coastal route between Ballycastle and Dunluce to experience one of the most dramatic drives in the world, now rated as one of the world’s great road journeys. We transport you by windswept cliffs, spectacular scenery, and fabulous unspoiled beaches. DUNLUCE CASTLE We continue a wonderful day with a photo stop at Dunluce Castle, home to the McDonnell Clan for many years and considered the most romantic castle in Ireland. En route we pass through Bushmills, famed for the fantastic whiskey, which is enjoyed all over the world. BELFAST Our next stop is Belfast City Centre. We provide you with a brief city tour taking in City Hall, the famous Titanic Dry Dock, and also The Victoria Square Centre, with its 360 degree view of the City. We return to Dublin after a great day, arriving in Dublin City at 8.30pm approx!

0 Telephone 353 1 823 0822 Fax +353 1 823 0765 UK Freephone 0800 7834 191 The Myth, The Legend | Legends of the North Next The Myth, The Legend The Giants Causeway in Antrim is one of the most beautiful world heritage sites, steeped in iconic viewpoints, historic value and is a place of interest for tourists from across the world, every day. The fantastic scenes you will witness on the Giants Causeway tour are shrouded in myth and legend that make for a fascinating read before embarking on the tour. Where do all good stories begin? At the beginning! Our stories go back to the ancient kingdom of Ulster that was unbelievably stunning with scenic views, fast flowing rivers connecting the kingdom with the seas, crashing into the imposing cliffs and rocks that made up the coastline. Gigantic stones too heavy for the ordinary man to life were laid out that have since adopted the name ‘Giants Graves’ over the last five thousand years.

You might have heard about Finn MacCool – the incredible Irish Giant who was feared across the lands all the way to Scotland, where the Scottish Giants resided. A feud had arisen between the two rival Giants, so Finn built a causeway spanning the length between ulster and Scotland, right across the North Channel. His Giants Causeway was built from odd looking, hexagonal shaped stones that fit together like a giant honeycomb. Finn took great pride in his work, and wanted to show off his achievement – so he challenged the Scots to a battle – but alas, he regretted this decision almost immediately. With his wide, they devised a plan to trick the Scottish Giant into retreating back to Scottish soil. Shortly after, Finn threw a giant clod at the disappearing Scot, missed and in turn created the Isle of Man. Finn set about destroying his hard work with vigour, and the Scottish Giant followed suit. All that remained was the jagged coastline that we know and love today. The mythology involved in this historic site merely adds to the stunning history and views seen on the Giants Causeway tour – as well as the true meaning behind the unique rock formation.

The Giants causeway: A natural wonder Bed and Breakfast The Giants Causeway; just how many pillars are there? The Giants Causeway is Northern Ireland's premier tourist attraction and fascinating geological wonder. A visit to Northern Ireland will be incomplete if you don't see the Giant's Causeway. It consists of thousands of basalt rock pillars, mostly hexagonal in shape and at times up to 100 meters deep, that at times are so geometrically fine as if custom designed by some intelligent super entity (hence the reference to giants). How many pillars in the Giants Causeway? Thousands! Some people estimate around 40.000 but this is by no means an accurate number. Even if you were to count them on your next visit, you would have missed the ones that are covered by the sea. How to Get There Ideally, make a visit to the Giants Causeway a tour day and include some of the other attractions in the area. In which case, take the coastal route A2 from Belfast/ Larne or Londonderry/Coleraine. It is also accessible via the A27 from Ballymena. Ensure you have a map with you always when driving in Northern Ireland.

Parking at the Giants Causeway Once you are near, the Giants Causeway is well signposted. There is an ample car park where you will pay about £5 for the day. If you prefer not to pay, follow the small country road that goes down the hill on the left side as you approach the Causeway complex. Go down the hill about 500 meters, past the Causeway & Bushmills steam rail station, and there you can park free on the side of the road. Please ensure that you don't block any of the farm entrances or farm traffic. Parking free means you will have to walk up the hill to get back up so if you would rather not, just leave your car at the car park. The Giants Causeway Visitor Centre You have parked your car walked past the entrance and are wondering where the Causeway is. Well, you are not there yet. What you have before you is a Visitor's Centre which includes a tourist shop; a small restaurant with another tourist shop; toilets. Use all three if you need to. The tourist shops have a plethora of guides, souvenirs, and other nice things and chances are you will want to spend at least half an hour there.

There is also an audio/visual presentation which is very informative. From the Visitor Centre to the Giants Causeway Once you have finished with the Visitor's Centre take the road down towards the sea. It is paved but no cars are allowed apart from the shuttle buses that ferry people up and down every 15 minutes or so. If you feel brave you can walk down to the Causeway and then back again. It takes about 15 minutes going down and a little longer coming up. Or you can take the shuttle bus. Many visitors walk down and take the shuttle bus back. If you decide to return by shuttle bus, make sure you know what time the last one leaves because they tend to stop early, especially in winter. The road from the Centre to the Causeway goes down towards the sea and swerves to the right following the coast for another 500 meters to the Causeway itself. The view is beautiful. Take your time. Walk around. See the waves splash on the rocks. Enjoy it, it is worth it. At the Giants Causeway Make sure you are wearing good walking shoes. The rocks are uneven and can be slippery. Also, in places there are steep climbs/falls.

So tread carefully and if you have small children preferably hold them by the hand. Sunsets can be very romantic there, but remember the minibus timetable if you are planning to use it. To the Pipe Organ? If you like walking/hiking, walk beyond the Giants Causeway to the Pipe Organ. The Pipe Organ is a similar rock formation that can be seen on the side of a cliff a few hundred meters beyond the Causeway. Follow the path beyond the Causeway and you will see the Pipe Organ on the side of the cliff. Then rather than return to the Causeway, follow a path that follows the side of the cliff for some more spectacular views. You will end up on the top of the Antrim cliffs, on the same level as the Visitor Centre, but above the Causeway. How Much Time? Allow for a minimum of 1 hour even if you are using the shuttle bus both way. However, to fully appreciate the area take up to three hours. Do not rush this visit, as the time spent there is well worth it. How was the Giants Causeway Formed? Here's the evolutionary theory, the creationist explanation and the mythological story...

Volcanic Activity The scientific view is that the Causeway was formed by volcanic activity resulting in seven separate lava flows. As each lava flow cooled by the sea water splashing onto it, other lava flows followed and cooled in turn. As the surface cooled and hardened, it contracted creating the cracks visible to this day. The sea water hastened the cooling time and helped produce the cracking. Geologists traditionally date these lava flows to about 60 million years ago while Creationists maintain a much younger age, roughly around 4,500 years ago. You can read more on how the two schools of thought explain the phenomenon, in Answers in Genesis. Giants' Activity According to Irish mythology, the giant Finn MacCool (Fionn mac Cumhail), lived in the Antrim coast area with his family many years ago. Across the water in Scotland (just 21 kilometers away) lived another giant named Benandonner (Fingal according to other sources). The two exchanged insults across the sea until one day Finn decide to go to Scotland and destroy the foul mouthed Scot. He therefore built the Causeway which, incidentally, also appears on the coast of Scotland.

As he approached unnoticed, he realized that Benandonner was much bigger than him, and so quickly turned around and rushed back to Ireland. Benandonner noticed the causeway and, in turn, decided to go to Ireland to take care of his haughty opponent. When Finn show him approaching he was terrified. His good wife Oonagh thought up a stratagem. She dressed Finn as a baby and put him to supposedly sleep. When Benandonner arrived and declared his intentions, Oonagh asked him to wait around until Finn returned from a supposed hunting trip. In the meantime she asked him to help her feed “the baby”. When Benandonner saw the size of “the baby” he was terrified as he wondered how big the father would be. He therefore excused himself and in horror and hurry left back to Scotland tearing up the Causeway on the way to ensure his safety. Henceforth the two giants lived happily ever after in their respective lands and never hurled abuse at each other. Shuttle bus information: shuttle bus fare: is £2 for adults return trip and £1 for children return.

wheelchair friendly Timetable 10am - 6:45pm (summertime) Things to see nearby: Lacada point - treacherous rocks that brought the Girona ship of Spanish Armada to the bottom of the sea. Carrick-a-rede rope bridge - walk it if you dare! Steam Train - from Giant's Causeway to Bushmills and back. Fancy some castle ruins? Here are some on your way: Dunluce Castle - So close to the waves, once upon a time the kitchen collapsed in the sea! Dunseverick Castle - It stood for ages - since the 5th century- but the waves brought it down. Ruins in a dramatic setting. Kinbane Castle - Somebody loved the sea. Another Castle ruin that belonged to the powerful MacDonnell clan. Ok, you are there. Anything else to see nearby? Don't miss.... The Giant's Causeway - Made by Giants -so they say - for you to enjoy! I repeat: Don't miss it.

Giant's Causeway, Ireland - National Geographic Travel Daily Photo Giant's Causeway, Ireland Giant's Causeway, Ireland Photograph by Jeff Mauritzen, National Geographic Science and mythology mingle at the Giant's Causeway, formed from volcanic activity some 50 to 60 million years ago. One of the most popular sites in Northern Ireland—and the first World Heritage site on the Emerald Isle—the landscape of around 40,000 basalt columns is considered a geological wonder. The giant of folklore is epic hero Finn McCool, who's said to have built a causeway to Scotland to challenge the neighboring land's resident giant. Giant's Causeway travel guide - Wikitravel Giant's Causeway is a spectacular rock formation on the Antrim coast of Northern Ireland . The site consists of some 40,000 basalt columns rising out of the sea. The Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland 's only UNESCO World Heritage Site . The Giant's Causeway Understand[ edit ] The Causeway was created over 60 million years ago following a volcanic eruption. The formation of the Giant's Causeway was due to intense volcanic activity.

The Giant's Causeway has a "twin" at Fingal's Cave on the Isle of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides off Scotland (near the island of Mull ), approximately 150km to the north east across the Atlantic. The close proximity of the two sites is what gave rise to the Myth of Finn MacCool - described below. Myth[ edit ] Popular mythology attributes the creation of the Causeway to an Irish giant named Fionn mac Cumhaill (or Finn MacCool). To prove his superior strength and status, Fionn decided to fight against a rival Scottish giant named Benandonner. As there was no boat large enough to carry huge Finn across the sea to confront Bennandonner, he built his own pathway of stepping stones from Ireland to Scotland. He then was able to walk across the sea without getting his feet wet. When he crossed the sea, however, he saw just how large Benandonner was. He ran back to Ireland before Bennandonner saw him, but the causeway was built and Bennandonner came to fight. Fionn crawled into a crib and when Bennandonner came to the door to fight him, his wife told him not to wake the baby.

Seeing just how large Fionn's "baby" was, Bennandonner grew afraid and ran back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway as he went to prevent Fionn following him. Get in[ edit ] Entry to the Giants Causeway is free, however there are lots of extras that will cost you. Firstly there is a Visitor Center which costs £9. This is a museum about the geology of how it was built. You can visit the causeway without visiting the museum. Parking in the official car park is only available to people who visit the Visitor Center. To avoid this, either take the free park and ride from Bushmills, or park in the Causeway Railway Car park (£6), on the left as you approach the Visitor Center. Getting from the Visitor Center to the Giants Causeway is about 1km, and there is a bus that can drop you down and back £1 each way. This is an easy walk for most people. By bus[ edit ] From Bushmills : There is a free bus that runs from the Park and Ride at Bushmills . But using this bus means you will have no choice but to pay £7.50 per person at the Giants Causeway.

This bus runs frequently during the day. From Coleraine : There is a Bus from Coleraine Via Portrush its called the Causeway Rambler service number 402 this departs from and returns to Coleraine Bus and Train station (which is all in the same building) the service can also be accessed from Portrush dunluce avenue (near medical centre) Please note that the 402 Causeway Rambler runs only from start of summer until late September. At other times during the year take the 172 bus that goes to Ballycastle from Coleraine Bus/Train station but always check at the station the bus stops at the Giants Causeway (Marked " aird giants causeway the Nook" on timetables). find the 402 timetable below (Causeway rambler Causeway coast rambler timetable link can be found here . Fare is £6.00 this is a hop on hop off service From Belfast : Bus 221 runs directly from Belfast Europa bus centre to the Giant's Causeway. There are day trips to the Giant's Causeway which also include stops at Bushmills whiskey distillery and the Glens of Antrim.

Allens Tours , Finn McCools Tours , McCoomb's coach travel are run tours. From Dublin : Either take daily direct express or take a train by Irish Rail/ bus by Bus Eireann from Dublin to Belfast first, then follow the above instruction. By car[ edit ] From Belfast, follow the signs for the "Giant's Causeway Coastal Route" for a beautiful scenic route to the Causeway. It takes longer (around 2 hours depending on traffic) but it is worth it for the views. There is also the more direct route along the A26 from Belfast or the A2/A37 from Derry/ Londonderry if time is a factor. By sightseeing tour from Dublin[ edit ] Several Dublin based tour operators offer daily tours from Dublin city to the Giant's Causeway, often including other areas of interest along the way such as Belfast City, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Antrim Coast. Typically tours depart around 07:00/07:30 in the morning and return at approximately 20:00. Tickets generally cost €60-69.

For many travellers such tours can provide the independence they want with the structure and local insight that makes for a relaxing tour. Get around[ edit ] Public transportation is scarce over the weekends, especially on Sundays after late September. Getting into Belfast, or even to the local towns and villages can be challenging. Hiring a car, or making an advance note of a minicab company's phone number is recommended step to take. Travellers should be prepared to walk long distances if they miss the daily bus that runs once in each direction on Sundays along the coast (towards Ballintoy/Ballycastle, bus route 172). While it might be worth considering this walk as the scenery alongside the road is neat, it is somewhat dangerous as along the villages and farms, public lighting is non-existent and often dogs are on the loose that are not welcoming towards tourists. See[ edit ][ add listing ] The focal point of the area is, of course, the Giant's Causeway itself. There is no charge for visiting the causeway, although you will find that parking is included in the entry to the visitor center. That being said, this is a free site (eg. no entry fee), so a car with four people works out quite reasonable.

Cheaper still, check out the near-by Causeway railway car park (£6) or park on the verge of the main road (free!) Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Once parked up or off the bus at the visitors centre, you will find there is actually a further road that gets you down to the Causeway. There is a bus service running constantly back and forth between the visitors centre and the rocks themselves, but walking there will only take around 20 minutes and will give you a chance to take in some more of the coastal scenary. Feel free to pose for photos on the rock columns, but be aware that waves will be splashing up onto the rocks, meaning that you can be soaked by the sudden swells and waves, or you can lose your footing on the slippery rocks. Buy[ edit ][ add listing ] There is a gift shop, selling the typical tourist tat of causeway and themed stationery, kitchenware, etc, and there is also an Information centre and Bureau de Change to change currency.

Please be aware that The Giants Causeway Visitor centre Does NOT accept euros only pounds sterling; if you need pounds change your foreign currency into pounds at the exchange bureau Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] There is the Bushmill's Inn which is very nice and strongly Irish themed. It's about 10 minutes drive from the causeway. Given Northern Ireland's relatively small size, you may feel that you want to stay nearer to or in a city such as Belfast or Derry/Londonderry and then drive to the Causeway from there. This would give you a much wider choice of accommodation. Get out[ edit ] Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge is near by. Fun and (despite what your instincts may tell you) perfectly safe. It costs between £4 and £6, with family tickets available. A chance to walk around some more coastal countryside and walk to the Island across the rope bridge. Giant's Causeway – Travel guide at Wikivoyage Myth[ edit ] Popular mythology attributes the creation of the Causeway to an Irish giant named Fionn mac Cumhaill. To prove his superior strength and status, Fionn decided to fight against a rival Scottish giant named Benandonner.

As there was no boat large enough to carry huge Finn across the sea to confront Bennandonner, he built his own pathway of stepping stones from Ireland to Scotland. He then was able to walk across the sea without getting his feet wet. When he crossed the sea, however, he saw just how large Benandonner was. He ran back to Ireland before Bennandonner saw him, but the causeway was built and Bennandonner came to fight. Fionn crawled into a crib and when Bennandonner came to the door to fight him, his wife told him not to wake the baby. Seeing just how large Fionn's "baby" was, Bennandonner grew afraid and ran back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway as he went to prevent Fionn following him. Scientific explanation[ edit ] The true explanation while not as colorful as the myths of yore is still quite interesting. Scientists now agree that about 60 million years ago a volcano let basalt come to or close to the surface that slowly cooled forming the polygon-shapes as the hot material contracted due to cooling.

The hexagonal shape is most common as it is the most "efficient" way to "pack" material (just as it is in a beehive). Later erosion formed the current structure, as the basaltic material forming the pillars is more resistant to erosion than other material. Similar structures (though in less impressive locations) can be found throughout the world. By bus[ edit ] There is bus service during the summer this is the 402 causeway Rambler (which costs £6.00) Departs Coleraine Bus/Rail station at other times of the year from late September to the spring time you will have to use the 172 service that runs from Coleraine Bus/Rail centre to Ballycastle via the Giants causeway (timetable will be marked "Aird the nook Giants causeway") all public transport info can be found at (click journey planner) From Belfast there are day trips to the causeway which also include stops at Bushmills and the Glens of Antrim. By car[ edit ] From Belfast, follow the signs for the "Giant's Causeway Coastal Route" for a beautiful scenic route to the Causeway.

It takes a longer (around 2 hours depending on traffic) but it is worth it for the views. There is also the more direct route along the A26 from Belfast or the A2/A37 from Derry/ Londonderry if time is a factor. By rail[ edit ] The two locomotives Rory and Shane at Giant's Causeway railway station in 2011 A small railway line the Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway from the village of Bushmills to the train station near the site of the Giant's Causeway. The railway used three trains, two of which are steam trains. The route goes though Bushfoot Strand down, Crossing Bushfoot Golf Course and Portballintrae . ( ) Prices:- Concession Return (over 60's) £6.50 Concession Single £4.50 Family Return £25.50 (2 adults and up to 3 children). Children under the age of 3 years are free. 55°13′52″N 6°31′34″W Map of Giant's Causeway Public transportation is scarce over the weekends, especially on Sundays after late September.

Getting into Belfast, or even to the local towns and villages can be challenging. Hiring a car, or making an advance note of a minicab company's phone number is recommended step to take. Travellers should be prepared to walk long distances if they miss the daily bus that runs once in each direction on Sundays along the coast (towards Ballintoy/Ballycastle, bus route 172). While it might be worth considering this walk as the scenery alongside the road is neat, it is somewhat dangerous as along the villages and farms, public lighting is non-existent and often dogs are on the loose that are not welcoming towards tourists. See[ edit ] The 'Organ', an awesome sight further down the path from the causeway itself The focal point of the area is, of course, the Giant's Causeway itself. There is no charge for visiting the causeway, although you will find that parking costs a little more than you would expect (circa £6). That being said, this is a free site (eg. no entry fee), so a car with four people works out quite reasonable.

Cheaper still, check out the near-by Causeway railway carpark (circa £4) or park on the verge of the main road (free!) It is an interesting site to see but come prepared for a long and intense walk. (Best to wear waterproof clothing and strong footwear). Giant's Causeway is split up into six sections; in walking order: The Camel The Giant's Boot and The Organ. All six parts of the Giant's Causeway are different in shape and form and truly are a sight to be seen. Do[ edit ] Once parked up or off the bus at the visitors centre, you will find there is actually a further road that gets you down to the Causeway. There is a bus service (£1 each way for non National Trust members) runs constantly back and forth between the visitors centre and the rocks themselves, but walking there will only take around 20 minutes and will give you chance to take in some more of the coastal scenery. Feel free to pose for photos on the rock columns, but be aware that waves will be splashing up onto the rocks, meaning that you can be soaked by the sudden swells and waves, or you can lose your footing on the slippery rocks.

Buy[ edit ] The National Trust operate a gift shop within the new visitor centre, selling the usual tourist goods at inflated prices. Entry into the shop is charged at £8.50/adult or £4.25/child. The new visitor centre does however boast limited onsite parking, a cafe, toilets and a few minor exhibits to justify the charge. It also accepts credit/debit card, euro and US dollar currency (if paying by note, returning change in pounds sterling). There is also a small privately owned gift shop located just to the side of the new visitor centre, easily missed, offering similar goods and refreshments at a much more reasonable price. There is no ATM on-site. The nearest one is to be found in Bushmills. Eat[ edit ] 55.232608 -6.515987 1 The Nook, 48 Causeway Rd, Bushmills, BT57 8SU (Beside the entrance to the causeway), ☎ +44 28 2073 2993 . Bar and restaurant.

(updated Oct 2016) Sleep[ edit ] 55.2296 -6.4071 1 White Park Bay Hostel , 157 Whitepark Road, Ballintoy, BT54 6NH (walk along coastal footpaths to the Giant's Causeway (or take the bus)), ☎ +44 28 2073 1745 . mid-March - mid-October. Excellent youth hostel in a great location next (and looking over) White Park Bay Beach. from £17. (updated Nov 2016) Given Northern Ireland's relatively small size, you may feel that you want to stay nearer to or in a city such as Belfast or Derry /Londonderry and then drive to the causeway from there. This would give you a much wider choice of accommodation. Go next[ edit ] Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge is nearby toward Ballycastle . Fun and (despite what your instincts may tell you) perfectly safe. It costs between £4 and £6, with family tickets available. A chance to walk around some more coastal countryside and walk to the Island across the rope bridge.

Bushmills and the whiskey distillery East to Ballycastle and then by ferry to Rathlin Island .

Question: Who in mythology is supposed to have built the Giant's Causeway
Answer: Finn MacCool